Drivers heading to this year's Glastonbury Festival are most likely to encounter issues with flat batteries and punctures, according to new data released by the RAC. As thousands prepare to make the journey to Worthy Farm in Somerset, the breakdown organisation has highlighted the most common vehicle problems that could delay festival-goers.
Flat batteries consistently rank as the top reason for RAC call-outs during the Glastonbury period. This is often due to drivers leaving lights on, using in-car entertainment while stationary, or simply having an older battery that struggles with prolonged use, especially after a long journey or when parked for an extended period at the festival site. Punctures closely follow as the second most frequent problem, which can be exacerbated by the varied road conditions leading to and around the rural festival site, or debris in car parks.
The RAC anticipates a substantial increase in demand for its services throughout the festival week, particularly as attendees arrive and depart. With major routes such as the A303 and A37 expected to see heavy traffic, any breakdown can cause significant delays not only for the affected vehicle but also for the thousands of others travelling to the event. The sheer volume of traffic and the rural setting can also make recovery more challenging.
To mitigate the risk of breakdowns, the RAC is urging all drivers to conduct essential vehicle checks before setting off. Key recommendations include inspecting tyre pressure and tread depth, checking oil and coolant levels, and ensuring the car battery is in good condition. These simple preventative measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering common issues and help ensure a smoother journey to and from the festival.
The advice comes as an estimated 200,000 people are expected to descend upon Pilton for one of the world's largest greenfield festivals. Many will be driving long distances, often with cars heavily laden with camping gear and supplies. The combination of long journeys, heavy loads, and potentially unfamiliar rural roads underscores the importance of vehicle preparedness to avoid disruption to the highly anticipated event.
Source: RAC